Netflix now lets you control mobile data consumption

The default setting of the tool allows you to stream roughly 3 hours of video per gigabyte of data. This translates to about 600 Kilobits per second in terms of bit ratesRajat Sharma | TOI Tech | May 06, 2016, 10:55 IST

Movies and TV streaming services provider Netflix has globally launched a new cellular data controls tool. The useful utility lets you granularly control how much data you use while streaming movies and TV shows on mobile data networks.

The default setting of the tool allows you to stream roughly 3 hours of video per gigabyte of data. This translates to about 600 Kilobits per second in terms of bit rates. According to testing conducted by Netflix, this setting is sufficient to maintain a balance between good video quality and low mobile data usage.

However, if you have a mobile data plan with higher allowance, you can always adjust this setting as per your convenience. Thanks to the easily configurable setting, users can manage data usage easily whether they are on an unlimited plan or a restricted one.

To specify the data usage, all you have to is go to Netflix’s iOS or Android app and jump into the app’s settings. Then, tap on ‘Cellular data usage’ and switch off the automatic (default) option. Once this is done, you can easily specify the data usage setting manually. However, make sure you update your Netflix app to the latest version beforehand.

This setting doesn’t affect streaming functionality on Wi-Fi networks or when using mobile tethering.

Netflix introduced its streaming services in India in January this year, with plans starting at Rs 500 per month.